China's humanitarian aid as a tool for creating a positive image in the international arena

The article is devoted to the analysis of humanitarian aid from the People's Republic of China as a tool for creating a positive international image. The author examines the evolution of China's approaches to humanitarian activities over the past two decades, starting with limited participation in the aftermath of natural disasters and ending with an expanded role in armed conflict and global epidemics. The focus is on the key factors determining the specifics of Chinese humanitarian diplomacy: cultural and historical traditions, a state-centric approach and the desire to preserve the principles of non-interference and respect for sovereignty. Special attention is paid to China's cooperation with international organizations and Southeast Asian countries, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, when humanitarian aid was used not only to meet urgent needs, but also to strengthen bilateral ties. Thus, the subject of the study covers the role of humanitarian diplomacy in the modern foreign policy strategy of the People's Republic of China, its impact on the development of soft power and the formation of trust on the part of the world community. The research uses methods of comparative analysis, historical and political approach and case study, which allows us to identify the features of Chinese humanitarian diplomacy and trace its transformation in the international context. The scientific novelty of the article lies in the comprehensive consideration of humanitarian aid from China as a systemic instrument of foreign policy, and not only as a response to crisis situations. The author reveals that, unlike Western practices based on multilateral cooperation and the leading role of NGOs, the Chinese model focuses on government involvement and bilateral aid channels. It is concluded that humanitarian aid has become an important element of China's "soft power" and is closely linked to the "One Belt, One Road" initiative, which allows Beijing to strengthen its political and economic positions in the countries of the Global South. At the same time, challenges remain — limited transparency, a cautious attitude towards non-state actors, and wariness on the part of Western countries. Despite this, China's experience during the COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated its ability to quickly mobilize resources and expand the range of international cooperation, which confirms the increasing importance of humanitarian diplomacy in shaping a positive image of China.